Church News - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Sister Sharon G. Larsen

Published: Sunday, Oct. 7, 2001

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When Latter-day Saints are on the Lord's side, regardless of numbers or worldly power, they are in the majority.

Working with the young women of the church as a whole, "these young people are valiantly and energetically taking a stand for goodness and decency."

"Loving may come naturally, but leading is a polished skill that maybe we don't take seriously enough. We lead by example more strongly than any other way. That is a heavy burden for parents and leaders of youth . . . If we are going to lead in righteousness, there can't be any question where we stand. Small uncertainties on our part can produce large uncertainties in our children.

"One of the greatest tests for parents and leaders is to love the one who seems to be unlovable. This is tough duty. It stretches the heart strings and wrenches the soul. When heartbroken parents pray for help, the help often comes in the form of angel aunts or uncles, grandmas or grandpas, good friends and leaders surrounding our loved one. They can reinforce our very message that may put our child on the track we've been praying for.

"Loving wisely and leading purposefully will help stem the tide of wickedness as we prepare the next generation for the exhilarating delights of (being) parents . . . We are not alone in this sacred trust of parenting, loving and leading. There is no greater joy. It is worth every sacrifice, every inconvenient minute, every ounce of patience, personal discipline and endurance."